I saw this motto on the University Lodge 1190 web site long before I decided to turn in my petition. While I understand the words, “What virtue has united, death shall not separate”, I have always looked for a more profound meaning. Aristotle categorized friendship into three types: The lasting...
The Golden Rule or the ethic of reciprocity is found in the scriptures of nearly every religion. It is often regarded as the most concise and general principle of ethics. It is a condensation of all longer lists of ordinances such as the Decalogue. In Freemasonry, the Golden Rule is...
Brethren, distinguished guests and friends, It is my honor as Worshipful Master to welcome you to our Festive Board. Before we commence with our celebration, I’d like to share some history about this cherished Masonic tradition. The roots of our Festive Board tradition can be traced back even further than...
Last Thursday, four of us met to practice our esoteric work. The most engaging discussion emerged when we went on a tangent, exploring topics related to memory work and Freemasonry. We each shared our personal techniques and approaches. Memory work has roots as ancient as humanity itself. Just yesterday, while...
Prepared by the Masonic Information Center Basic Principles Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. It requires of its members a belief in God as part of the obligation of every responsible adult, but advocates no sectarian faith or practice. Masonic ceremonies include prayers, both...
“The idea of ‘becoming a Freemason’ is something of a misno-mer. I think that you are born a Freemason. There is something within you which leads you to want to develop in an integrated way, to seek self-development to become a better person. And part of this search involves considering...
“Eventually, body and soul will have to separate, just as they existed separately before we were born. So why be upset if it happens now? If it isn’t now, it’s later.” Epictetus That later will be your now again. For most of us, the time we have seems not enough....
I have put a lot of effort in my life trying to control what happens to me, and that I have choices and options for dealing with events that may occur. I wanted and got an education, I lived within my means, and did pretty much what I needed to...
There are many definitions of “religion.” Not everyone agrees with one description. This misconception may be one of the reasons there is confusion about Freemasonry being a religion or a cult. First, Freemasonry does require its members to believe in the existence of a Supreme Being. But that is all...
Brethren, At the close of another eventful calendar year, and the midpoint in our Masonic year, I ask that you take some time to reflect. We can count accomplishments, degrees conferred, etc., but that is not what I am thinking of as I write this. I am grateful for the...
